Police previously said examinations of the owl and kestrel – which are both legally protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act – showed the birds had been shot with a gun. After the bodies were discovered, Hampshire Police launched an investigation into the incident in the village, which has a population of just over 1,000 residents.

On August 13, a police spokesperson said: “James Kempster, 37, of Marchwood Road in Totton, has been charged with possessing live/dead Schedule 1 wild bird or its parts, possessing live/dead non-Schedule 1 wild bird or parts, and criminal damage. On the morning of March 15 this year, police received reports that around 50 dead hares, a kestrel and a barn owl were found outside Broughton Community Shop in High Street. Officers from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary’s Country Watch Team have been investigating the incident alongside the Criminal Investigation Department, which has now resulted in these charges.”

Kempster wore a grey quarter-zip jumper and jeans, and spoke only to confirm his name and address. He arrived wearing a black Nike cap. After a 30 minute hearing, the case was adjourned and no plea was entered. Kempster will next appear at the Magistrates court on September 23. He is not allowed to enter the village of Broughton during this time under his bail conditions.

https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/man-accused-dumping-dozens-dead-33640721